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Türkiye will host a pivotal diplomatic meeting between Ethiopia and Somalia on Monday, August 12, 2024, as part of ongoing efforts to de-escalate the Ethiopia-Somalia tensions. The meeting, which is part of the “Ankara Process,” was initially scheduled for September 2 but has been moved forward due to the urgency of the situation.
Background on the Ethiopia-Somalia Conflict
Relations between Ethiopia and Somalia have deteriorated since Ethiopia signed a controversial agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia, on January 1, 2024. The deal, which Ethiopia struck without consulting the Somali government, has exacerbated existing tensions and posed significant challenges to regional stability.
Türkiye’s Role in the Mediation
The upcoming talks follow a visit by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan to Ethiopia, where he engaged in extensive discussions with both Ethiopian and Somali officials. Diplomatic sources suggest that the goal of the meeting is to reach a compromise that takes into account the strategic and security interests of both Ethiopia and Somalia.
Previous Efforts and the Ankara Process
This meeting marks the second round of direct negotiations between the two countries, with the first round having taken place in Ankara in July 2024. Türkiye’s role as a mediator in this process underscores its growing influence in the Horn of Africa, where it has been actively working to prevent further escalation of conflicts.
Implications of the Ethiopia-Somalia mediation for Regional Stability
The international community is watching closely, as the outcomes of these talks could significantly impact the broader stability of the Horn of Africa. Both Ethiopia and Somalia have expressed hopes that Türkiye’s mediation efforts will lead to a peaceful resolution and a normalization of relations.
The Ankara Process is viewed as a critical opportunity to address the underlying issues that have fueled the tensions, and Monday’s meeting is expected to be a significant step toward achieving lasting peace in the region.